Written by If you’ve been told you need a dental crown, you might have a lot of questions — especially if it’s your first time dealing with this type of dental restoration. Fortunately, dental crowns are one of the most common and effective ways to restore a damaged tooth. If you’re in McKinney, Texas, and searching for reliable and professional dental crown services, this guide will help you understand the process, benefits, types, costs, and how to choose the best dentist in McKinney for your needs.
What Are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a cap placed over a damaged, decayed, or weakened tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are often used when fillings are no longer sufficient or when a tooth has undergone root canal treatment.
Dental crowns completely encase the visible portion of a tooth above the gum line and are cemented into place. They can be made from a variety of materials depending on your needs, budget, and aesthetic preferences.
Why Might You Need a Dental Crown?
Your dentist in McKinney may recommend a dental crown for several reasons:
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To protect a weak tooth from breaking or hold parts of a cracked tooth together
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To restore a broken or severely worn-down tooth
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To cover and support a tooth with a large filling when not much natural tooth remains
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To hold a dental bridge in place
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To cover misshaped or severely discolored teeth
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To cover a dental implant
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To make a cosmetic modification
Types of Dental Crowns Available in McKinney
In McKinney, dental offices offer various types of crowns based on material, durability, and appearance. Here are the most common:
1. Porcelain or Ceramic Crowns
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Best for front teeth due to their natural appearance
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Custom color matching to your existing teeth
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Biocompatible and metal-free
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Ideal for patients with metal allergies
2. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns
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Stronger than all-ceramic crowns
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More affordable than gold crowns
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May show a thin metal line at the gum over time
3. Gold Crowns
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Made from gold alloy for strength and durability
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Extremely resistant to wear
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Often used for molars where chewing forces are strongest
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Not as aesthetically pleasing for visible teeth
4. Zirconia Crowns
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One of the most durable crown types available
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Offers strength and aesthetics
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Suitable for both front and back teeth
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Can be fabricated in-office using same-day crown technology
5. E-max (Lithium Disilicate) Crowns
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A high-strength ceramic material
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Natural-looking and translucent
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Preferred for anterior restorations
The Dental Crown Procedure in McKinney: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Initial Consultation
Your journey to a healthier smile begins with a consultation at your McKinney dental office. Your dentist will examine the affected tooth, take X-rays, and discuss your treatment options.
Step 2: Tooth Preparation
To make space for the crown, your dentist will file down the tooth’s outer layer. If a large portion of the tooth is missing, a filling material may be used to build it up before placing the crown.
Step 3: Impressions
An impression or digital scan of the tooth is taken to create a custom crown that fits perfectly. You may be given a temporary crown to protect the tooth while your permanent crown is being made.
Step 4: Crown Fabrication
Crowns are typically fabricated in a dental lab and may take 1-2 weeks. Some dental offices in McKinney offer same-day crowns using CAD/CAM technology like CEREC, which can design and mill the crown during a single visit.
Step 5: Crown Placement
Once the crown is ready, your dentist will check the fit and bite before cementing it into place permanently.
Benefits of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns offer several functional and cosmetic benefits:
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Restores tooth strength and structure
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Improves chewing and speaking
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Enhances smile aesthetics
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Protects weak or cracked teeth
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Long-lasting with proper care (10–15 years or more)
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Supports overall oral health
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
The lifespan of a dental crown depends on the material used and how well you take care of it. On average:
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Porcelain-fused-to-metal: 10–15 years
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All-ceramic or all-porcelain: 10–15 years
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Gold crowns: 20 years or more
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Zirconia crowns: 15–20 years
Practicing good oral hygiene, avoiding hard foods, and attending regular dental checkups in McKinney will help extend the life of your crown.
Cost of Dental Crowns in McKinney, TX
The cost of dental crowns in McKinney varies depending on:
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Crown material
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Complexity of the procedure
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Insurance coverage
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Dentist’s experience
Here is a general price range:
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Porcelain-fused-to-metal: $800–$1,500
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All-porcelain/ceramic: $1,000–$1,800
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Zirconia: $1,200–$2,000
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Gold: $1,200–$2,500
Many dental clinics in McKinney accept insurance and offer payment plans or financing options through companies like CareCredit.
Choosing the Right Dentist in McKinney for Dental Crowns
Finding the right provider can make all the difference in your dental crown experience. When choosing a McKinney dentist, consider the following:
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Experience and Qualifications – Look for a dentist with specialized training in restorative dentistry.
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Technology Used – Clinics offering same-day crowns with CEREC may be more convenient.
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Patient Reviews – Check Google, Yelp, and Healthgrades for real patient testimonials.
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Office Environment – Choose a dental practice with a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere.
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Insurance & Payment Plans – Ask about coverage, out-of-pocket costs, and financing options.
Top Tip: Search for terms like “best dental crowns McKinney TX” or “affordable dental crowns near me” to find highly rated providers in your area.
Dental Crown Alternatives
Depending on your dental situation, your dentist may suggest alternatives:
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Dental Veneers – For minor cosmetic improvements
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Inlays/Onlays – For partial tooth restoration
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Dental Fillings – When damage is minimal
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Tooth Extraction + Dental Implant – When a tooth is beyond repair
Caring for Your Dental Crown
To maintain your dental crown:
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Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
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Floss daily – especially around the crown
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Avoid hard or sticky foods
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Limit staining substances like coffee, tea, and tobacco
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Visit your McKinney dentist every 6 months for routine checkups
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Are dental crowns painful?
The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia, so you shouldn’t feel pain. Mild sensitivity may occur afterward but typically resolves within a few days.
Q: Can I get a dental crown in one day?
Yes! Some dentists in McKinney offer same-day crowns using CEREC technology, which eliminates the need for a temporary crown or second visit.
Q: Will my crown look natural?
Yes. Crowns made from ceramic, zirconia, or E-max are custom-matched to your existing teeth, offering a natural and aesthetically pleasing look.
Q: Can dental crowns fall off?
Although rare, crowns can come loose if the cement weakens. Contact your dentist immediately if your crown feels loose or comes off.
Q: Are crowns covered by insurance?
Most dental insurance plans partially cover crowns if deemed medically necessary. Cosmetic crowns may not be covered.
Conclusion
Dental crowns are a proven and reliable way to restore the strength, function, and appearance of damaged teeth. Whether you’re dealing with decay, cracks, or cosmetic concerns, a custom crown from a trusted McKinney dentist can dramatically improve your oral health and your smile.
If you’re looking for high-quality dental crowns in McKinney, TX, make sure to consult with an experienced, highly-rated dentist who can guide you through the process and provide lasting results.
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